External English Tests

CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language Test), Cambridge Assessment, IELTS Academic, and TOEFL iBT are accepted as external test options for meeting VCC's English entrance requirements. 

Duolingo English Test

Duolingo: Temporarily accepted 

For students in a region impacted by IELTS or TOEFL test centre closures due to COVID-19, VCC will temporarily accept the Duolingo English Test as one of the ways to meet our English entrance requirements for international students. Duolingo English Tests taken after February 1, 2020 will be accepted temporarily for available intakes until further notice.

Students must request the Duolingo results to be sent directly to VCC - International Student Admission, and inform VCC once it is requested. Results are typically released to VCC within 48 hours of the request.

Important Note:

• The minimum Duolingo English test score required for Post-Degree Diploma programs is 105.
• If you decide to take Duolingo English Test, please request the Duolingo results to be sent directly to Vancouver Community College (International Student Admission) and inform us once it is requested with your application package. Results are released to VCC within 48 hours.
• Duolingo English Test scores are accepted temporarily, and the above scores are also subject to change. Be sure to check this page before sending your Duolingo English Test scores with your application to VCC.

VCC's Language School Partners in Canada

If you do not meet the English admissions requirements and wish to upgrade English before studying at VCC, you may study at VCC's partner language schools to meet VCC's requirements. 

• ILAC: www.ilac.com
• ILSC: www.ilsc.com

Refer to the list of VCC programs accepting ILAC or ILSC university Pathway Certificates for details. 

ILAC and ILSC Pathway Certificates are valid for 2 years. Pathway certificates must be valid on the requested VCC program start dates.

English-Speaking Countries

Speaking and listening requirements can be satisfied through three years of full-time face-to-face secondary or post-secondary education at an accredited institution where English is the medium of instruction and is also one of the country’s official languages. Refer to the list of countries that satisfy the English language standard. ESL courses are not included in the three-year calculation.